Try the New Demo for the Upcoming Action RPG: Dynasty Warriors Origins

It’s hard to believe it’s already been seven years since the last main installment of the series, but Dynasty Warriors Origins is finally bringing us back to the legendary era of the Three Kingdoms. I have fond memories of those times spent slashing through waves of enemies, always forgetting the timeless advice: “Do not pursue Lu Bu.” Now, the franchise makes its triumphant return, and you can get a sneak peek of what’s in store through a demo that’s already gaining traction on Steam.

While we’re still two months out from the official release date for Dynasty Warriors Origins, you don’t have to wait until 2025 to get your hands on it. The new demo has just dropped on Steam, offering a chance to dive into the Battle of Sishui Gate with varying difficulty levels. Players can try out four different weapons — a classic sword, guandao and pudao polearms, and even circular blade wheels — providing ample opportunity to explore and experiment with the game’s mechanics.

For years, I’ve felt that Dynasty Warriors has been somewhat misunderstood. Many, including my younger self, have written it off as shallow, assuming it was just mindless button-smashing without much depth. However, after playing with a friend who knew the ropes, I quickly realized the game offered a surprising level of complexity. When the action heats up, managing everything happening across the battlefield becomes a real challenge, and the most formidable foes demand genuine skill and patience.

The demo’s popularity is already evident, drawing in over 10,000 players simultaneously — a significant milestone compared to the previous installments. Dynasty Warriors 9, for instance, peaked at just 3,586 concurrent users despite its parallel launch on consoles. Traditionally, the series has felt more at home on consoles, but perhaps this release signals a shift towards a more PC-centric audience.

For those eager to jump back into the action, the Dynasty Warriors Origins demo is available now on Steam. The full game will hit the shelves on Friday, January 17, 2025, with a price tag of $69.99 / £64.99. So if you’re itching for another adventure in the Three Kingdoms, head to the store page and download the demo.

Meanwhile, if you’re searching for ways to pass the time before the full game drops, why not explore some of the best free games on Steam or team up with a friend for some top-notch co-op gameplay? And don’t forget to follow us on Google News for the latest updates on PC gaming, including reviews and guides. Plus, our PCGN deals tracker can help you snag some great deals in the meantime.